Are air fresheners and scented sprays safe for home use?
No. Peer-reviewed research links indoor air pollution to serious health risks, including thyroid disease and developmental issues in children.
What's actually in it
Air fresheners and scented sprays often release a cocktail of chemicals directly into the air you breathe. These products frequently contain persistent organic pollutants and endocrine-disrupting chemicals (substances that interfere with your body's hormone systems). When you spray these in your home, you are not just adding a scent. You are increasing your exposure to pollutants that can accumulate in your body and affect your long-term health.
What the research says
The science is clear: indoor air quality has a direct impact on your health. A 2026 study in Ecotoxicol Environ Saf found that combined exposure to persistent organic pollutants and endocrine-disrupting chemicals is linked to an increased risk of thyroid disease.
The risks extend beyond just your own health. A 2026 study in Environ Res shows that maternal exposure to indoor air pollution during pregnancy is linked to a higher risk of autism spectrum disorder in offspring. Furthermore, a 2026 study in Environ Res highlights how household air pollution exposure is associated with changes in the body that are seen in areas with high lung cancer incidence. These findings are based on peer-reviewed research that proves our indoor environments are often far more polluted than we realize.
The research at a glance
What to use instead
Browse our vetted, non-toxic alternatives. Every product is third-party certified.
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